The Automatic Identification System (AIS) has to date primarily been applied in the provision of Vessel Traffic Services in a basic manner. AIS has been very valuable in assisting VTS in identification of radar targets and tracking of vessels in non-radar coverage areas. In some instances it has reduced voice communications by replacing previously required position reporting. However, the full benefit of AIS capability to VTS beyond these basic applications has yet to be realized. AIS has the capability to revolutionize VTS operations and provide vast benefit to the mariner in the form of properly presented information at the right time. However, there are many issues which need to be examined and resolved in order to fully realize this capability. This paper will examine the current state of AIS usage in Vessel Traffic Services (primarily in the United States), review some existing innovative uses of AIS for VTS purposes and attempt to illuminate the potential for future use of AIS in VTS. Along with future potential uses, issues that VTS authorities should take into consideration will be identified. While recognizing that AIS is not a panacea, the future use of AIS will be information-driven: making information available for the mariner and other users and getting it to and from places that were not possible, not feasible and likely not even thought of in the past.
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